ATP requirements change on Aug. 1ATP requirements change on Aug. 1

May 27, 2014By AOPA ePublishing staff

King Schools has cut the price of its airline transport pilot (ATP) written exam by 50 percent in anticipation of a change in training that goes into effect on Aug. 1. Currently, pilots can take the written test, and under 14 CFR 61.155(d), they will have two years to pass the practical test.

But after Aug. 1, pilots pursuing an ATP certificate will be required to have 1,500 hours and complete an ATP certification training program. The program, consisting of 30 hours of ground and 10 hours of simulator training, must be completed prior to being eligible to take the ATP written and practical tests. AOPA was among those concerned about what effect the new rule will have on Part 61 flight training providers and new student pilot starts.

“To help motivate pilots to get this done now, we are making it easy on their pocketbooks by offering a 50 percent discount on our 'Airline Transport Pilot ATP Interactive Video Ground School and Test Prep' course right up until the FAA deadline,” said John King in a press release.

The course features full-screen, 10-minute video segments. “Pilots learn the concepts behind the questions, which is more fun and rewarding than just memorizing answers. Each video segment is automatically followed by a quiz” using representative FAA test questions, said King. “The course tracks the pilot’s progress and includes a test prep section where they can practice on questions by subject area, answered status, marked questions, or any combination. The program can also generate as many random practice tests as you want.”

For more information or to buy the course, visit the King Schools website or call 800/854-1001 (worldwide +1-858/541-2200).